Quartier des Traverses Route de la Colmiane and Col Saint-Martin Pass in the Maritime Alps

The Quartier des Traverses - Route de la Colmiane is situated in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region of France, within the Maritime Alps mountain range, part of the greater Alps system. This road traverses the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera, a notable mountain massif known for its rugged terrain and natural beauty. The route crosses the Col Saint-Martin mountain pass, which sits at an elevation of approximately 1500 meters (4,921 feet). The road connects the settlements of Quartier des Traverses and Route de la Colmiane, providing access to viewpoints and natural attractions in the area. An interactive map showing the road section discussed in this article is available at the end.

The road extends for about 22 kilometers (13.7 miles) and is primarily asphalt surfaced with an overall surface quality rated as moderately good. The route is moderately twisty, offering a riding experience with a mix of gentle and sharper curves, suitable for riders looking for a balanced challenge. The road width is predominantly wide (about 79%), with middle-width sections making up 17%, and narrow stretches only about 2%. It mostly consists of two lanes (about 91%), with a very small portion being single lane.

The elevation ranges from 466 meters (1,529 feet) at the lowest point to 1505 meters (4,938 feet) at the highest, near the Col Saint-Martin pass. Speed limits vary between 30 km/h (19 mph) and 50 km/h (31 mph), reflecting the road's mountainous nature and safety considerations. Approximately half of the route passes through inhabited areas, which may affect riding conditions and require attention to local traffic.

The defining feature of this route is the Col Saint-Martin mountain pass, a well-known crossing in the Maritime Alps. The pass itself is a highlight for motorcyclists due to its elevation and the surrounding alpine environment. Along the route, riders can find multiple viewpoints offering expansive views of the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera and the surrounding mountain ranges. These viewpoints provide excellent opportunities for rest and photography, enhancing the overall riding experience.

The road's location within the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera places it in a region recognized for its natural heritage and alpine landscapes. For more detailed information about the pass, see the Col Saint-Martin Wikipedia page. The broader mountain range context can be explored at the Maritime Alps Wikipedia page and the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera Wikipedia page.

Currently, there are no specific motorcycle-related closures reported for this road. However, as a mountain pass road, it is subject to seasonal closures or restrictions, particularly during winter months due to snow and ice conditions. Riders should verify local conditions before planning a trip, especially in colder seasons.

There are no tolls or entrance fees associated with this route at present. Toll policies can change, so it is advisable to consult official French road and transport authorities for the latest information. More details on tolls and fees in France can be found at the official French government transport website.

The Quartier des Traverses - Route de la Colmiane offers a moderately twisty, mostly wide two-lane asphalt road crossing the Col Saint-Martin pass in the Maritime Alps. With an elevation gain from 466 meters (1,529 feet) to 1505 meters (4,938 feet), it provides a varied riding experience through inhabited and natural areas. The road quality is generally good, and the route includes viewpoints that highlight the alpine scenery of the Massif du Mercantour-Argentera.

This article focuses on the road section visible on the map below, providing motorcyclists with detailed insights into the route's characteristics and surroundings for informed trip planning.